subject: Spotting Worms in Dogs [print this page] Worms in dogs are parasites which live in the animal's intestines and which eat the food they find there. This can cause severe damage to the gut as well as loss of blood.
The symptoms of worms in dogs are varied and they may not all be present. No symptoms at all may be present and it is usually the case that by the time symptoms become present severe damage has already been done.
Nevertheless, dog owners should be aware of the symptoms of worms in dogs. These are diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, anaemia, the dog seeming generally run down and, as a result, susceptibility to other illnesses. In cases where there are lots of worms, the dog might develop a cough, lose weight, have a poor coat and a pot bellied appearance in puppies. Also, worms may cause puppies to grow at a slower than normal weight and could even kill them.
Because symptoms are not always present, owners can look out for other signs of worms in dogs. These can include seeing evidence of worms in the dog's faeces or vomit. Tapeworm segments which look almost like small grains of rice may be seen around the dog's anus, too.
Even when dog owners are equipped with the knowledge of how to spot the symptoms or worms, it is still important to remember that symptoms may not always be present. Worms in dogs are so prevalent that it is safe for dog owners to assume that their pet puppy is infected. The same is true of older dogs with fleas or which spend good amounts of time outdoors. From the age of two weeks puppies should be wormed every two weeks and vets will suggest a sensible worming routine for older dogs.
